This week, This is Haslemere met up with Olga Houghton to talk all things art! Later this month, Olga, along with a couple of other local artists, will be holding a private open studios event in Haslemere. So we thought this was the perfect opportunity to find out a bit more about this local artist. 

Olga has lived in Haslemere for nearly 12 years, not only as an artist but also as a Head of Art and Art Teacher at Highfield and Brookham School. In 2023, Olga was approached to be new Chairperson of Haslemere Art Society and after two thriving years she then was accepted as an FRSA and was also approached to join the Board of Directors as a Trustee at Watts Gallery. She describes herself as an artist from childhood, having always felt in touch with her artistic nature and recalls how this has influenced her life to date. Her main sources of inspiration include nature, literature, Japanese culture, ceramics, florals and still life, feminine energy and Greek mythology. Having seen some of her work in person, her varying sources of influence are apparent in her beautiful and evocative paintings and earthen ceramics.

She recalled her time studying Fine Art History in Canada, highlighting her module on ‘historical materials and techniques of the artist’ as a particularly defining influence in her work today. This work relies on naturally sourcing materials which is then used to create art including powdered pigment and linseed oil. She noted the importance here of the journey and process of creation, as well as the result, an ideology she applies to her own life.

Her working background consists of a mixture of teaching in Canada, Japan and the UK in both art and English. Her time teaching in Japan allowed her to form a love for working with ceramics both in painted form and physical creation. Whilst teaching others, art was always a constant for Olga and she decided to pursue a Master’s Degree at Goldsmiths University after gaining her Bachelor of Education. Her own children, having borne witness to a hub in the home atelier, have also grown up to share in her love of art and creativity.

In more recent years, Olga grew her online presence during the Covid-19 lockdowns and her art proved to be a massive hit! In 2021 she started doing art fairs and open houses. In 2023 she also partook in the Surrey Artist Open Studios. With her eldest doing A levels this year, opening her house was more of a challenge this year, but she hopes to do an open house this Autumn and further Surrey Open Studios events. Excitingly, she has also been accepted on a residency in Greece this year and intends to connect with other artists during this period, emphasising the importance of community in the art industry. Olga feels a strong connection to Greece as it is where her parents are originally from, before they moved to Canada. On the horizon, Olga is also planning a solo exhibition, and she has collaborated with two artist friends to hold a private open studios event in Haslemere from 10-17th June, by appointment only.  Please email Olga if you are interested in attending.

We certainly found Olga’s background to be a fascinating story and truly admire her skill as an artist. If you are also intrigued by Olga’s artwork or upcoming events then be sure to follow her on Instagram Olga H O U G H T O N FRSA (@olgahoughtonart) and check out her website www.olgahoughton.com.

Olga, we so enjoyed meeting you!  Thank you for the delicious coffee and for your warm welcome.